Richard A Saunders

He was born in Harlem, New York City, on May 30, 1945. He grew up in Corona, Queens, where his childhood was instilled with a lifelong commitment to family and passion for justice. This passion led him to become a New York City Transit Police Officer for twenty years (March 1969- August 1989) while rising to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4 with the United States Army. He was also a lifelong member of the NAACP and Treasurer of the Osceola County chapter.

Richard and Bettyjean spent many years together and the two bonded over their mutual appreciation for travel and managed to travel to every continent over the course of their long and happy marriage.

Richard always ensured that we all had what we needed at all times. His TOUGH and all-encompassing love for his family shaped us all into strong, independent individuals capable of making a way for ourselves in this world.

Richard leaves behind his children: Laura (husband Lawrence), Tanya, Tshana (husband Devon), and Catherine Ann; his grandchildren, Donovan, Lauren, Eyanna (husband Quentin), Joseph, Ike, Chi-Chi, and Taylor; and his great-grandchildren, Judah Kingston and Aniko Renee.

He was preceded in death by his Sons, Richard Leon Saunders and Michael Snowden Saunders, Father Samuel Saunders, Mother Hazel Thompson, “Pops” Leon Snowden Johnson, and brother Dwayne Simmons.